Native American theater is composed of very old traditional dance and storytelling that has a very long history. With the diverse tribes of Native Americans, comes rich diversity in many different art forms. Every tribe has a unique set of stories, rituals, and dances that are passed down from generation to generation. In contrast to the idea of theater in modern day, a Native American's tribal arts connected the individual to the whole tribe. They became connected not only to the tribal members still living, but their ancestors as well. It is important in Native American culture to feel connected and secure in the tribe, and focus less on separating yourself from others around you and finding your voice as an individual. Culturally, these art rituals were of significant religious value. Many dances focused around nature, and through these dances and rituals, the tribe sought religious harmony and unity with nature and the Spirits residing in nature. They endevoured to achieve balance in the world, which was of the utmost importance.
More modern Native American plays have assimilated Euro-American elements into their productions. This new step in the history of Native American theater began in New York in the 1950's with Arthur Junaluska, who was of Cherokee Indian descent. To this day, not many plays have been written about and for Native Americans. Very few remain centered around the original rituals and stories of Native American tribes. Most Native American plays now center around the recent history of the Native American people in the United States.
More modern Native American plays have assimilated Euro-American elements into their productions. This new step in the history of Native American theater began in New York in the 1950's with Arthur Junaluska, who was of Cherokee Indian descent. To this day, not many plays have been written about and for Native Americans. Very few remain centered around the original rituals and stories of Native American tribes. Most Native American plays now center around the recent history of the Native American people in the United States.